but more than 30% of u.s. families have four or more credit cards and the average american household carries nearly $16,000 on their cards. in total, americans owe $585 billion in credit card debt. >> we felt like we were in jail. just as if there had been real bars all around us. >> many of the bailey's situation would have considered bankruptcy. but for them, it wasn't an option. >> the debt was mine. it wasn't everybody's out there. and when you bankrupt, it affects other people. innocent people. and so it was our responsibility. and we were the ones who had to do something. with our debt. >> reporter: they worked with a nonprofit credit counseling agency and entered a debt program. >> we looked at their bills as far as paying rent, mortgage, utilities. then we look at the debts. who they owe money to, what type of debt it is. >> reporter: the agency contacted creditors who waived late fees and lowered interest rates. they had to cut up all their cards, use cash for essentials and make a weekly payment of $